Mahale Mountains is located in one of the most remote and beautiful locations in Tanzania, on the western border with the Congo, against the shores of Lake Tanganyika. This park, 1613 sq kms in size, which is a home to a large chimpanzee population, is one of the most difficult parks to get to. It is only accessible only by small aircraft.
Mahale is also home to some of the last remaining strongholds of chimpanzees in Africa. In isolated rainforest some 1500 - 2000 of these fascinating primates roam the hills and valleys. Observing the chimpanzees in their natural habitat, one cannot help but be touched by their natural grace and anthropomorphic features.
Although the nearby Gombe Stream National Park more famous, the primate population in Mahale Mountains is more numerous and sightings more regular and prolonged.
Hiking in the beautiful forest is itself special, with other species of primate like the red colobus, yellow baboon and Syke's monkeys, shyer forest mammals, butterflies, birds, giant vines and waterfalls.
Although remote, a chimpanzee safari to Mahale Mountains National Park is well worth the effort. Up close, observing the endangered primates is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
A Mahale safari offers the best opportunity in Africa to see chimpanzees in an unspoilt wildlife sanctuary!!
